“What are the risks of leaving and erupted wisdom tooth, and what does the extraction process involve?”
I have a wisdom tooth that's partially erupted. What are the risks of leaving it, and what does the extraction process involve?
2 Answers
DentistDentist
A **partially erupted wisdom tooth** can lead to **infection (pericoronitis), decay, gum disease, crowding, cysts, and jaw pain** if left untreated.
### **Extraction Process:**
1. **Consultation & X-ray** – The dentist assesses the tooth.
2. **Local Anesthesia** – Numbs the area.
3. **Tooth Removal** – Simple extraction if fully erupted; surgical removal if impacted.
4. **Stitches (if needed)** – Helps with healing.
5. **Recovery** – Swelling and mild pain for a few days; avoid smoking, straws, and hard foods.
If your wisdom tooth is causing issues, see a dentist for evaluation.
### **Extraction Process:**
1. **Consultation & X-ray** – The dentist assesses the tooth.
2. **Local Anesthesia** – Numbs the area.
3. **Tooth Removal** – Simple extraction if fully erupted; surgical removal if impacted.
4. **Stitches (if needed)** – Helps with healing.
5. **Recovery** – Swelling and mild pain for a few days; avoid smoking, straws, and hard foods.
If your wisdom tooth is causing issues, see a dentist for evaluation.
Leaving a partially erupted wisdom tooth is a relatively high risk for pericoronitis, which is inflammation and infection of the gum tissue around a partially impacted wisdom tooth. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, pus, difficulty opening the mouth, and spread of infection.
